Are you a Black American ready to move abroad?

As we get to the other side of the pandemic, one trend that will likely stay is flexibility. Both companies and people who are self-employed, will likely adopt a hybrid work model where essentially they can work from anywhere in the world.

Given that with the racial tension and turmoil that still taunts the Black community, many travelers of color are ready to experience life outside the U.S. as they prioritize safety and overall well-being.

Considering a move? Here are the top 10 destinations for Black travelers looking to relocate abroad

1. Medellín, Colombia

Medellín has grown tremendously in popularity over the last few years. It’s an exciting city that offers a lot to do. There’s an active nightlife scene, a thriving Black expat community, and it’s also an affordable option for expats.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

 

Lisbon, Portugal | Photo by Stephen Knowles Photography

Lisbon is often described as a vibrant city with scenery that’s unlike any other place you will find. The views of the colorful houses combined with its iconic seven hills— as the yellow and red trams roll through neighborhoods— are simply iconic and make the perfect postcard.

Lisbon is rich in diversity and culture, and a place where Black expats thrive.

3. Belize City, Belize

Moving to Belize will be one of the best decisions you’ve made.

From its beaches to rain forests, Belize is a country of diverse natural beauty, so you will never get bored, and the cost of living is still considered low.

What Black travelers will especially love about Belize is there’ significant Black history and culture, so you will feel welcomed.  According to research from Hampton University, Belize has the highest percentage population of African descent of any Central American nation.

For a taste of Afro-Belizean food, try “bile up.” It’s a Belizean creole dish with boiled eggs, fish or pigtails with plantain, yams, and tomato sauce.

 

4. Dakar, Senegal

 

Photo by Catherine Avak

Senegal is a great destination for Black travelers looking to move to a place where they can reconnect with their ancestors. What’s so exciting about Senegal is that there’s a rich history to learn about the past, but so much happening in the future that will put you in the right place at the right time.

Senegal will also soon be home to a futuristic city that many call a “real-life Wakanda” after musical artist and mogul Akon announced plans to build a city that will serve as a “safe haven” for descendants of the diaspora looking to flee racial injustice.

5. Limón, Costa Rica

Limón is probably the last place you considered in Costa Rica, but there’s a lot of potential as an up-and-coming expat destination. If your goal is to get away to a place that remains untouched, consider Limón.

A third of the population identifies as Afro-Costa Rican. There you can discover the Afro-Caribbean culture, food, and music.

It’s far less touristy but a good place to live if you want the coastal and Caribbean vibe without the crowds— for now.

When you’re there, keep in mind that Black History Month is celebrated in August. August was chosen to commemorate the First International Convention of the Negro Peoples of the World, which concluded with a ceremony in Madison Square Garden on August 31, 1920.

 

6. Accra, Ghana

 

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Accra is known for its welcoming vibe, especially when locals find out you’re from somewhere else and decided to “come home.”

In fact, you will feel safe and welcome from the moment you arrive.

As life becomes more threatening to Black people in America, many have chosen and are talking about moving to Ghana to put racism behind them.

There are more than 3,000 African Americans living in Accra, according to Al Jazeera. While it’s true, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, many Black Americans will tell you they feel safe and free in Ghana. It’s a reason why Stevie Wonder, Dave Chappelle, and so many other celebrities are looking to relocate or buy a second home in Ghana.

7. Panama City, Panama

No one wants to leave America and be uncomfortable somewhere else.  That’s why we present to you Panama City, Panama.

Panama is known for its lively carnival culture, beaches, and nightlife scene that includes a mix of friendly locals, expats, and tourists from around the world. But the most important thing, as a Black traveler, is you will feel welcome.

Panama City is also a great place to live comfortably for less than $1,100 per month.

8. Bangkok, Thailand

 

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Speaking of safety, Thailand is a place where you don’t have to worry about your safety as a Black traveler. You will have access to some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches, breathtaking scenery, mouth-watering cuisine, and more. You can be in the moment, and not fear for your life just by existing.

 

9. Barcelona, Spain

Spain has one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe. When you combine that with the fact that there’s a successful and thriving expat community,  Barcelona is a great place for those of you considering relocating.

As the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is the perfect place that offers something for everyone, including Black singles or families.

We want to be transparent about Spain as it’s controversial, and depending on where you are in the region, it gets mixed reviews.  Some people say the further south you get, the more anti-Black it gets, yet, other expats have enjoyed and embraced their stay. Just be mindful.

10. Montreal, Canada

 

Photo by Marc-Olivier Jodoin

Montreal is a great option for people looking for a culturally rich experience but not interested in going too far. And the best part?  Canada is ranked high for being one of the most multicultural countries in the world.

Montreal is a [underrated] foodie city that has the highest number of restaurants per capita in Canada, according to Geos Montreal.

With its strong African and Caribbean culture, there’s no doubt that you will find diversity in the culinary scene, and you will be welcomed by locals.

11. Tulum, Mexico

In just a few months of its creation, the Black in Tulum Facebook group surged in followers. There are more than 14,000 followers because Tulum is quickly becoming the “Atlanta” of Mexico for Black expats.

There’s a thriving community of Black expats in Tulum and most importantly, it’s where people are going because they feel safe.